"The final phase of the largest-ever expansion of publicly funded childcare support has begun in England, as thousands of working parents receive more help with their nursery costs. Those eligible are now able to access 30 hours of childcare per week during term-time, paid for by the government, for their children aged nine months to four years. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said it was a "landmark moment" for working families, and that the scheme would "put money back in working parents' pockets"."
"Parents Josh Harper and Chloe Hart say their 18-month-old son Oakley's name was the first one on the waiting list at his new nursery in Altrincham. The 240-a-month saving on fees, which are falling from 1,130 to 889 because of the scheme extending from 15 hours to 30 hours of funded care, "just releases that little bit of stress", mum Chloe says. "It is a significant saving and one that does really help us," dad Josh adds."
"The government had estimated that about 70,000 extra places would be needed by this September to accommodate that increase in demand. The number of spaces is rising but availability varies across the country and nurseries and childminders say inquiries for places have "gone through the roof" from families eligible for the extra funding."
The final phase of the largest-ever expansion of publicly funded childcare support has begun in England, extending 30 hours of government-paid childcare per week during term-time to children aged nine months to four years. The policy reduces many parents' fees—for example, a reported £240-a-month cut as funded care extends from 15 to 30 hours—providing direct financial relief to working families. Demand has surged, with the government estimating about 70,000 extra places required by September. Availability varies regionally as nurseries and childminders report inquiries have "gone through the roof" and many providers cite staff shortages that limit capacity and create waiting lists.
Read at www.bbc.com
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